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Step back to May 9, 1940, when this magnificent deep-gloss black machine rolled into its first chapter, originally delivered to the prominent Welch family of Welch's Grape Juice fame through Mooers Motor Car Co. in Richmond, Virginia. Styled by the visionary Howard Darrin and built on Packard’s formidable Custom Super Eight One Eighty chassis, it is a true coachbuilt masterpiece—one of only 11 ever produced, and standing proudly today as one of only 9 known to exist in the world.
The car's journey continued to Pennsylvania until 1955 when it was purchased by Ted Pakula for just $2,500 and taken to Detroit where it resided until 1989 after Ted's passing. The remarkably preserved sheet metal proved that it had never needed body work, maintaining its integrity through the decades. When the time came to revitalize this pre-war icon, the meticulous restoration was expertly handled by Gene Tereshawty.
During Gene's restoration, a rare brand-new old stock (NOS) crate engine was installed along with a NOS transmission with factory overdrive, giving this legendary machine the mechanical perfection of a brand-new car. The exterior's striking black coat was paired with a matching tan convertible top and a rich, supple London Tan interior.
Since that restoration was completed, the car has been driven fewer than 2,000 miles (preserving its breathtaking time-capsule quality, including a mere 663 miles recorded on its circuit history). That exceptional craftsmanship was immediately validated on the show circuit, capturing a prestigious first-place win at the Packard National Meet alongside premier Senior First Prize winner honors in national competition for the CCCA (badge #2495).
Turn the key to awaken Packard's legendary 356-cubic-inch L-head inline-eight engine. Pumping out 160 horsepower through its 9-bearing straight-eight design and hydraulic lifters, it delivers the effortless, whisper-quiet power and majestic ride that once made it the undisputed king of the highway. Paired with its desirable factory overdrive, and featuring gleaming chrome, a gorgeous wood-grain dashboard, and the sweeping, low-slung lines of Darrin's custom coachwork, every inch of the car radiates exclusivity and grace.
An undisputed Full Classic eligible for the premier concours lawns and touring events, this extraordinary Packard Darrin awaits its next custodian to write the next lines of its storied history.
Inquiries: Contact the showroom to arrange your private viewing of this rare piece of automotive history.
